The vicugna has sometimes been called the Chilian sheep, from the name
of the country it inhabits. It is covered with a fine, valuable wool,
which is of a red rose color on the back, but white on the other parts
of the body. Vicugnas congregate in large herds, and feed on grass and
small shrubs, and so long as they can procure enough of such food,
they are never known to drink. They are very timid, but swift and sure
at running. Their legs are slender and well formed, and the head tall
and erect. Their ears are long and pointed, and their eyes large and
brilliant. From the form of their feet, they are well fitted to travel
mountainous countries, and are said to be even safer than mules. The
vicugna is upwards of five feet in height and six in length. The tame
ones will carry a load of over fifty pounds, but they are kept
principally for the sake of the wool, and the flesh, which is said to
taste like mutton. Here is a picture of the llama, which is like the
vicugna in many respects.
[Illustration]
[Illustration: WOLF.]